If you’ve noticed asthma symptoms worsening at certain times of the year, you probably have seasonal asthma. There are a lot of indoor and outdoor allergens that can trigger an allergic asthma reaction. If you experience seasonal asthma, keep reading to learn what may be causing it - and what you can do about it.

Symptoms of Seasonal Asthma

Sufferers of seasonal asthma may experience a variety of symptoms. The primary ones include:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Chest pain/tightness
• Difficulty breathing

Common Causes of Seasonal Asthma

Unfortunately for most seasonal asthma sufferers, there seems to be no end to the supply of causes. Here are the most common that you might experience when the seasons shift.

Pollen

Pollen is a powdery substance produced by a variety of plants that helps them reproduce. Pollen is so light that it is often carried away by the wind. When inhaled, the pollen can trigger an allergic reaction or cause asthma symptoms to increase.

Pollen shows up a lot of the year. In the spring, tree pollen is a problem. Summer features grass pollen, while fall has ragweed pollen.

Cold weather

Cold weather usually drives people indoors to escape unpleasant conditions. While you may be warmer indoors, you’re also exposed to several asthma triggers for longer periods of time. Dust mites, pet dander, mold, and even pests like cockroaches can cause your symptoms to show up.

Hot weather

Whether you live in a humid or dry climate, high temperatures can easily spark your seasonal asthma. Dry air can irritate the nasal passage and make it more sensitive to pollen and other irritants. Hot, humid weather can cause the nasal passage to tighten up, making it harder to breathe.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew can trigger seasonal asthma in summer, fall, and winter primarily. There are different types that can cause asthma symptoms, both indoor and outdoor.

If you are active outdoors in the warmer months, you may be susceptible to mold on fallen trees. During the winter, indoor mold from damp conditions can also affect your breathing.

What To Do About Seasonal Asthma

If you’re like millions of people with seasonal asthma, you may not even know you have it! Double-check all the above-listed triggers to see if any of them could be causing your symptoms.

Once you identify your trigger, it’s time to think about treatment. Here are the common options:

• Inhalers reduce inflammation in the respiratory system to make breathing easier. 
• Rescue medications are used in emergency situations for quick relief.
• Mast cell stabilizers are medications that can stop allergic reactions.
• Leukotriene modifiers stop chemical activity that leads to inflammation.

Not sure what the best treatment for your seasonal asthma is? Head to your nearest urgent care center for treatment, advice, or testing!

Seasonal asthma causing you discomfort? Make sure to visit AFC Urgent Care Braintree to evaluate any sudden respiratory symptoms.